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Gas Interlocks and Ventilation for Factory Plant Rooms and Process Areas — Preston
Published 8 October 2026 · SMR Gas Maintenance Ltd
On a factory site, boilers, ovens, dryers and process burners can burn a lot of gas in an enclosed plant room or process area. Without the right ventilation and extraction, fumes and carbon monoxide build up quickly. A gas interlock makes sure gas only flows when the ventilation or extraction is proved to be working.
SMR Gas Maintenance Ltd installs, links and repairs gas interlock systems for factory plant rooms, process areas, workshops and food production plants across Preston, Lancashire and the North West. Gas Safe 562186.
How a gas interlock works
A gas interlock panel monitors the supply and extraction fans or the combustion air supply, usually with airflow or current sensors. If the fans stop or fail, a solenoid valve closes and shuts off the gas to that area. Most systems also include an emergency stop button and a proving system that checks for open valves before gas is restored.
When you need one
- New plant rooms and process areas, or refits
- Replacing or adding gas-fired plant
- When existing ventilation or extraction has no link to the gas supply
- When an inspection has flagged a missing interlock
Linking gas to an existing fan system
Many sites already have ventilation or extraction fans but no working link to the gas. We survey the fans, controls and gas supply, then fit a suitable interlock panel, sensors and solenoid valve. We test the whole system so gas shuts off when the fans stop.
Common interlock faults
- Airflow sensors blocked with dust or process residue
- Fans running slowly after speed controllers are turned down
- Faulty solenoid valves failing to open or close
- Emergency stop buttons left pressed
- Wiring altered during plant changes
Process plant and larger sites
Industrial sites often combine boilers, ovens, dryers and process burners with complex ventilation. We match the interlock design to the plant and the production pattern, and test interlocks when the burners are serviced.
FAQ
Why won't the gas come on in our plant room?
Often the fans aren't running or the interlock has detected low airflow. Check the fans and emergency stop, then call us if the gas still won't restore.
Can you add an interlock to our existing ventilation?
Usually yes, after a survey of the fans and gas supply.
Can installation be done around production?
Yes. We can plan the work for shutdowns, weekends or changeovers.
Do you issue paperwork?
Yes. You receive commissioning records and the relevant commercial gas safety paperwork.
Get a gas interlock quote
Call 07882 898492 or email andy@smrgasservices.co.uk with details of your plant room or process area and fans, and SMR Gas Maintenance Ltd will arrange a survey.